This week, I delve into the connections between two pivotal moments in the Scriptures: “It is good” in Genesis and “It is finished” in John.
In the book of Genesis, we find the creation account, where God speaks the universe into existence. After each act of creation, God declares it to be good. In Genesis 1:31, we read, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” This proclamation signifies the perfection and harmony of God’s creation before the entry of sin into the world. It reflects the divine intention for humanity to dwell in fellowship with God, enjoying the beauty and abundance of His creation.
Fast forward to the Gospel of John, where we encounter another pivotal moment in salvation history: the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. As Jesus hung upon the cross, bearing the weight of the world’s sins, he uttered the words, “It is finished” (John 19:30). These words, spoken amid agony and suffering, mark the culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the fulfilment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.
At first glance, these two statements may seem unrelated—after all, one speaks of creation and the other of salvation. However, there are profound parallels that reveal the unity of God’s purposes throughout history.
Firstly, both “It is good” and “It is finished” reflect God’s sovereignty and authority over all creation. In Genesis, God’s declaration of goodness affirms his role as the Creator and sustainer of the universe. Likewise, Jesus’ proclamation on the cross asserts His divine identity and His power to accomplish the Father’s will. In both instances, we see God exercising His sovereign rule over creation and redemption.
Secondly, “It is good” and “It is finished” both signify completion and fulfilment. In Genesis, God’s declaration of goodness marks the completion of the creative process, signalling the perfection of His handiwork. Similarly, Jesus’ words on the cross signal the completion of His earthly mission and the fulfilment of God’s plan of salvation. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus accomplished redemption for all who would believe in Him, bringing to fruition the promise of salvation foreshadowed throughout the Old Testament.
Thirdly, both statements point to restoration and renewal. In Genesis, God’s declaration of goodness reflects His original intention for creation—to dwell in harmony with humanity and to bless them abundantly. Despite the fall of humanity into sin, God’s redemptive plan seeks to restore and renew His creation, culminating in the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus offers restoration and reconciliation to all who turn to him in faith, ushering in a new creation where righteousness reigns and God’s glory fills the earth.
As we reflect on the parallel meanings of “It is good” and “It is finished,” let us marvel at the wisdom and love of our Creator and Redeemer. Let us give thanks for the goodness of God’s creation and the finished work of Christ on the cross. And let us live each day in the light of these profound truths, rejoicing in the hope of salvation and eagerly anticipating the day when God will make all things new (Revelation 21).
May we, therefore, embrace the fullness of God’s redemptive plan, knowing that in Christ, we find both the beginning and the end of our salvation. And may we proclaim with confidence and gratitude the words of our Savior, “It is finished,” trusting in the power of his resurrection and the promise of eternal life.
Shalom!
Wan Leng HO
